Step-by-step guide for removing stubborn boat windshield wiper arms.
Service Opportunity: A helpful resource for removing boat windshield wiper arms.
Specific Product Suggestion: An illustrated online guide or a short video tutorial. This resource should demonstrate:
- Different techniques for getting stuck wiper arms off (like using penetrating oil, tapping, or wiggling).
- Recommended tools, such as battery terminal pullers, small 3-jaw pulley pullers, or specific wiper arm removal tools, and how to use them properly.
- Tips for dealing with common issues like corrosion on tapered or knurled shafts.
- Preventative measures for reinstallation to avoid future problems.
Expected Benefit: This resource would help boat owners tackle this common maintenance task more effectively. It would:
- Save them time and reduce frustration.
- Prevent accidental damage to the wiper arm, motor shaft, windshield, or other parts of the boat.
- Help them avoid potentially expensive mechanic fees for what can be a simple, yet often tricky, repair.
- Make them feel more confident and capable in maintaining their own boat.
Origin Reddit Post
r/fixit
How do I remove windshield wiper from boat?
Posted by u/oliverkiss•05/31/2025
I removed the 2 bolts, 1 of the arms comes off, the other doesn’t budge. I tried knocking it a bit thinking maybe corrosion is the reason it’s stuck but no luck.
Top Comments
u/mmpjd
I tap it with either a rubber mallet or a hammer with a piece of wood while applying a little pressure under the wiper arm.
u/Senior_Cheesecake155
I would use a battery terminal puller or a small 3 jaw pulley puller. It shouldn’t take much to pop it off
u/NthngToSeeHere
I'd just get some penetrating oil and tap the end of the shift with a hammer while pulling and it'll probably pop off. A little heat might help too.
u/GoldPhoenix24
that black piece under the stuck arm, is that painted metal or plastic or rubber?
i believe you can find a removal tool, either something like a ball joint separator or a pulley puller. i wo
u/oliverkiss
Gave it a little wiggle and it popped right off. Thanks everyone!
u/240shwag
I would guess it’s a tapered fit with a knurled shaft. Might need to use a pickle fork.
u/ntyperteasy
Tapered fit plus corrosion means it’s stuck. I’d give it a little penetrating oil and then either a wiper arm tool or battery post tool (both are lightweight versions of an automotive ball jo
u/momentofinspiration
Hit it harder is usually the answer.
You could try pb blaster or other such penetrating oil, but it usually just involves caveman levels of ugh
u/iliketoredditbaby
Battery terminal puller works well. eBay Amazon etc.